My question is: Can you block the IPs it’s phoning home to without breaking other TV functions, like OS/app updates, etc? Is there a list of IPs available for smart TVs specifically that keep the fingerprint from being received by the mfg?

  • Vanilla_PuddinFudge@infosec.pub
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    1 day ago

    Leave it offline and use a separate android TV box.

    They’re like $25 now. Enjoy using your TV like a computer monitor as intended.

    • harrys_balzac@lemmy.dbzer0.com
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      1 day ago

      Are there any good options for Android boxes? I just need SmartTube and Emby. Otherwise it’s just going to be a giant screen for my XBox and PS5.

      • Vanilla_PuddinFudge@infosec.pub
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        2 hours ago

        Ironically enough as it is to believe, the Walmart branded ONN ones are pretty mundane. Spend a little for the more premium model that they sell. It doesn’t block you from doing basically anything and they’re very vanilla. I don’t know if there’s any background spying going on from Walmart or not but the OS itself doesn’t seem touched, but you can lock it to a VLAN if you want. I consider my entire default routed network hostile and selectively run my PCs on a separate private dns and network. I find it’s easier to jail myself than jail the malware every time I buy something new.

      • Evotech@lemmy.world
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        7 hours ago

        I use an nvidia shield. They’re good

        Native Google play store. So you can get any app

      • Dr. Unabart@sh.itjust.works
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        1 day ago

        I have a Formuler Z11 Max and it’s awesome. Though a little pricier. Also have hooked a couple people up with those 29$ Walmart 4K ONN AndroidTV boxes, that are an extremely good box for the value. I live and die by SmartTube.

        • harrys_balzac@lemmy.dbzer0.com
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          24 hours ago

          Thank you! I’m pretty tech-literate but I am just dipping my toes into this stuff. I’ll look at both of those.

          I have SmartTube on my TV and NewPipe on my phone. I can’t imagine life without them.